Virgin Mountains facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Virgin Mountains |
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![]() Virgin Mountains seen from the Northshore Drive along Lake Mead
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Highest point | |
Peak | Virgin Peak |
Elevation | 7,946 ft (2,422 m) |
Dimensions | |
Area | 116 sq mi (300 km2) |
Geography | |
Country | United States |
The Virgin Mountains are a group of mountains found in the northeastern part of the Mojave Desert. They are located in both Nevada and Arizona. These mountains stretch across the desert landscape, offering amazing views.
Exploring the Virgin Mountains
The tallest point in these mountains is called Virgin Peak. It stands at about 7,946 feet (2,422 meters) high. The Virgin Mountains are located northeast of a large lake called Lake Mead. They are also about 15 miles (24 kilometers) south of the town of Mesquite in Nevada. Water from these mountains eventually flows into the Colorado River and Lake Mead.
Most of the Virgin Mountains, about 91.6%, are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM helps protect and care for public lands. A special part of the Virgin Peak area is set aside as the Virgin Mountain Natural Area. This area helps protect the unique plants and animals found there.
Animals and Plants of the Virgin Mountains
The Virgin Mountains are home to many different kinds of animals and plants. You can find many species of lizards here. There are also snakes like the Panamint rattlesnake and the glossy snake.
Many types of trees grow in these mountains, including:
The Virgin Mountains also have a very special insect. It is a type of stick insect called Timema nevadense. This insect is endemic to the area, which means it is only found naturally in the Virgin Mountains and nowhere else in the world!